My Son, a Rugby Union player since the age of 7, came to Rugby League as a means of keeping fit and match-ready during the Summer. To say that we have been blown away by Rugby League would be a huge understatement! The pinnacle of his Rugby League career (to date) is the Regional Player Development Centre.

A few things that make it so special:

• Communication
  Right from the pre-centre briefing, through the trials, the weekly newsletters and onto the feedback the players receive, communication is first-class. And you always know that there's someone you can speak to about the slightest of concerns.
• Organisation
  One thing we've learned is that if the Rugby League tell you to be there at 11.30, you'd better be. Also, if they say that a session will finish at 2.00, it does. This is an absolute god-send to a busy parent.
• Coaching
  Not just the quality of the coaching, but the coach-to-player ratio. As a parent, you know that your child is in the best hands and has every opportunity for their individual needs to be addressed.
• Leadership
  While this is the Midlands RPDC, the presence of the RFL's national leadership is never far away. Not in an interfering way, but in a guiding and experienced way.
• And finally, YOU matter
  We're all there for our kids and would move heaven-and-earth for them. However, it adds so much when you, the adult, are consulted, included and made to feel important.

As a parent, the commitment you'll have to make to RPDC is significant. However, when you see the smile on your lad's face, the mates he's made and the development you see in his game, you'll know it's all been worth it!

We are delighted that Matt has been selected for the RPDC.

The presentation given to parents at the outset, the organisation and weekly communication to the parents from Martyn and Darren are second to none.

Matt is really enjoying himself  and believes he is learning and benefiting from being part of the programme, In his words 'Its quality' which I believe in modern speak it has his seal of approval.

A big thank you to all concerned for their hard work and dedication to the lads

I would like to thank the RFL for introducing this programme to the Midlands.

Any budding rugby player should cherish the opportunity to be a part of this programme as the RPDC gives through coaching and classroom lectures a fully appraised position regarding what it takes to become a professional Rugby League player.

My son has enjoyed every second of the programme run at the Alex Higgs center in Coventry whose training facilities are magnificent and I was able to watch all sessions both outdoors and in the gym which has also given me a wonderful insight into the sport.